Messenger - Spring 2022

Highlands Ranch Metro District S pr i n g 2022

Inside This Issue C-470 Public Input Sought . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Senior Center planning update. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Recreation Programs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-21 Local project updates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Nature EdVentures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Recreation programs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9 Water resources. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

A Publication Providing Information About

Last chance 2013 Summer to register forT-Ball, Baseball, Softball Registration baseball, T-ball and softball.

See Page 14

See Pages 8–9

highlandsranch.org

Recreation Programs • Youth & Adult Sports • Parks & Open Space Projects • Local Government Updates

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Metro District

Learn in the great outdoors

Upcoming Events National Prescription Drug Take Back

Registration is required one week in advance.

Saturday, April 30 — 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

DCSO Highlands Ranch Substation

April 14 Nature Art Ages 3-6 April 26 Introduction to Geocaching All Ages/Families May 8 Bee-utiful Wildflowers for Mom Ages 8+/Families

Renew the Ranch

Saturday, May 14 — 9 to 11 a.m.

Designated parks & open space areas

May 14 Cops & Bobbers Ages 6-14 May 24 For Goodness Snakes All Ages/Families May 26 Wildlife Photography Ages 7-12 June 1 Introduction to Fishing All Ages/Families

Spring Tree Recycling

Sunday, May 15 — 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Redstone Park

June 4 Kids Fishing Day Ages 6-14 June 20-24 Nature Camp Ages 7-10 or July 18-22

PLUS

Memorial Day Event

Monday, May 30 — 11:45 a.m.

Highlands Ranch Veterans Monument

KidFest

Saturday, June 11 — 9 a.m. to noon Civic Green Park

Horseback Riding Lessons for Kids & Adults Stockton’s Plum Creek Stables Saturday Intro to Horses (Ages 8+), Kiddie Corral I (Ages 5-7), Beginning & Intermediate Horsemanship (Ages 8-15)

Learn more & register at highlandsranch.org/signmeup

Vote in the May 3 local director elections The Highlands Ranch Metro District, Centennial Water & Sanitation District and South Metro Fire Rescue are holding local director elections on May 3.

The Highlands Ranch Metro District holds director elections in May of even-numbered years until 2023, when special district elections change to oddnumbered years. Registered voters who live in or own property in the Highlands Ranch Metro District may vote in these elections. They may vote for candidates in any region regardless of the region in which they live or own property.

Polling places will be located at 62 Plaza Drive, and ballots can be dropped off there on Tuesday, May 3 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. There will also be a drop box at the DCSO Highlands Ranch Substation, 9250 Zotos Dr., from Monday, April 11 through Tuesday, May 3 at 7 p.m. The drop boxes are applicable for only the Metro and Centennial elections, not SMFR. Additional election-related information, including absentee ballot applications, are available on the elections page at highlandsranch.org.

For more information about the Metro District director election, please send an email to info@highlandsranch.org. The Highlands Ranch Metro District has served the community since 1981, providing municipal services to Highlands Ranch.

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director seats up for election

Type of election:

Polling place

&

mail-in Absentee Voting

election information: highlandsranch.org/elections

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director seats up for election

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director seats up for election

Type of election:

Type of election:

&

mail-in Ballot

Polling place

mail-in Absentee Voting

election information: centennialwater.org/vote

election information: southmetro.org

Local Government Update. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Good News. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Highlands Ranch Outdoors . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7 Recreation Guide. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9 Tennis Programs & Park Services. . . . . . . . . 10 Water Resources. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Meet Your Local Government The Highlands Ranch Metro District is responsible for: • Water and sanitation services through an agreement with Centennial Water and Sanitation District

Celebrating spring with good news

Leadership Outlook

Table of Contents

Springtime has historically been a time of celebration. This spring, the Metro District is celebrating the payoff of all of our long-term debt, four years early! We are now debt free. The financial strength of the Metro District is attested to by our AA+ rating and strong reserves to support operations and capital needs for today and the future. This financial strength is underscored by the fact that the Metro District is able to provide high quality services for a lower property tax rate than other similar communities through good management and proper planning.

Spring is also a time for growth, as the Metro District is moving forward with building the Highlands Ranch Senior Center. Our residents over 55 are the fastest growing segment of the Highlands Ranch population, having doubled in each of the last two census surveys.

The Metro District has partnered with local providers of senior services to identify unmet needs, and we plan to improve and expand opportunities to better serve our residents.

The Metro District has funds in hand from development fees and interest earned on development fees, to build the senior center without the use of tax dollars. Furthermore, the Metro District’s long range financial forecast anticipates funding operations of the senior center through property tax, grants, and fees without needing to increase our tax rate. The Metro District always welcomes feedback from our citizens on any matter, so please reach out with questions or suggestions through the link on our webpage, at highlandsranch.org/seniorcenter.

Mark Dickerson Chair, Highlands Ranch Metro District Board of Directors

• Recreation programs and services • Developing and managing parks, trails and natural open space areas • Building community infrastructure, including major roads, traffic signals, and storm drainage and stormwater management • Managing and maintaining landscaping, fence and community entries along major roads • Community events and volunteer activities • Managing the Highlands Ranch Mansion • Street lighting through Xcel Energy Metro District Board of Directors

Front Cover:

Our site civil engineering consultant, Calibre Engineering, continues to make good progress toward completing the site improvement design. Based upon community input, staff intends to work with the engineer and landscape architect to mitigate noise and light impact on adjacent neighborhoods through vegetative buffers and berms where appropriate.

A successful community open house was held Feb. 24, during which the team received additional comments and input from residents. As the project design continues, a location and extent development review will proceed with Douglas County, and construction is anticipated to begin later this year. This recent input is a continuation of a public input process that started in 2018, and will help shape the project and make the senior center a facility of which the entire community will be proud.

If you have questions about this or other Metro District projects, please contact me at 720-240-4910 or at mrenshaw@highlandsranch.org.

Courtesy photo

Mike Renshaw General Manager, Highlands Ranch Metro District 3

Messenger

Learn about the Metro District’s T-ball, baseball, and softball leagues on Pages 8 and 9.

The new year is off to a fast start, particularly with progress on the design and development of the Highlands Ranch Senior Center. On Jan. 12 our architectural consultant, OZ Architecture, presented schematic designs to the board of directors, and staff recorded feedback on several elements of the early design. On Jan. 25, a critical milestone was reached when the board approved a contract with Waner Construction in an amount not to exceed $20,000 to provide important pre-construction services. These vital services include assisting the project team in determining construction costs and performing value engineering during the next phase of design development.

Spring ‘22

Mark Dickerson, Chair Allen Dreher, Vice Chair Carolyn Schierholz, Treasurer Renee Anderson, Director Andy Jones, Director Nancy Smith, Director Jim Worley, Director

Senior Center planning & design progressing

Local Government Update

It’s all on the web

highlandsranch.org

You’ll also find links to fellow service providers in the community. New features continue to be added, so visit often.

Twitter

Facebook

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Nextdoor

LinkedIn

Metro District Parks, Recreation & Open Space Service Center 3280 Redstone Park Circle Highlands Ranch, CO 80129 Phone: 303-791-2710 Fax: 303-470-9516 Email: parksinfo@highlandsranch.org Recreation Contact: Metro District Recreation Services Phone: 303-791-2710 Fax: 303-470-9516 Email: recreationinfo@highlandsranch.org Visit us at highlandsranch.org.

The Metro District Messenger is published four times annually. Visit highlandsranch.org or send an Email message to info@highlandsranch.org.

Editor: Sherry Eppers, Community Relations Manager

Spring ‘22

The 2022 Highlands Ranch Citizens Academy concluded with a graduation of 13 participants, after seven sessions learning about how Highlands Ranch operates and ways citizens can become more engaged in our community.

When you visit highlandsranch.org, you will find valuable information about the programs, services and activities of the Highlands Ranch Metro District.

Metro District Contacts: Highlands Ranch Metro District 62 Plaza Drive Highlands Ranch, CO 80129 Phone: 303-791-0430 Fax: 303-791-3290 Email: info@highlandsranch.org

Messenger

2022 Citizens Academy graduates 13 local residents

Contributing Writers: Beau Bressler, Recreation Coordinator Courtney Kuhlen, Community Relations Specialist Kari Larese, Community Relations Manager, Centennial Water & Sanitation District Jodie McCann, AAPS Outreach Coordinator Pam Moisey, Reservations Coordinator Dave Parks, Recreation Supervisor Carolyn Peters, CPRP, Recreation Manager Luke Ruter, Recreation Coordinator Brenda Willcutt, Recreation Assistant ©2022 Highlands Ranch Metro District

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The Citizens Academy was established by the Metro District in 2020. The annual program aims to build the civic capacity of Highlands Ranch residents. This seven-session course, with an additional evening for graduation, exposes participants to key topics and issues in Highlands Ranch and introduces opportunities for civic involvement.

The session topics include the role of local government, local services including parks, recreation and open space, public works, water and wastewater, public safety – and related topics including financial stability, the history of Highlands Ranch, and community partnerships. Information is also provided about local leadership from and services provided by the Highlands Ranch Community Association and fellow local community partners.

“I’ve learned so much about the unseen services in Highlands Ranch: the water treatment plant and the sewage treatment plant (who knew little microbes are responsible for so much). Sounds weird, I know, but I’ve enjoyed learning about what goes into this underappreciated part of our lives. Great people too,” said Jan Ruscio, 2022 Highlands Ranch Citizens Academy graduate.

Citizens Academy graduates are involved in the community as election judges, on scholarship committees, members of other citizens academies and by volunteering at community events.

“As a long-term resident of Highlands Ranch, I’ve watched the physical transformation go from pasture land to thriving community. At the same time, much of the decision-making has shifted from the developers to the community itself. While the Highlands Ranch Citizens Academy provides great insight into the history, the present, and the future of Highlands Ranch, its greatest gift is an opportunity for residents to participate in processes that help ensure Highlands Ranch continues to thrive. The developers built the community, the Citizens Academy is a wonderful way to foster engagement within it,” said Paul Clarke, 2022 Highlands Ranch Citizens Academy graduate and Highlands Ranch resident since 1989.

Program applications for the 2023 program will be available next fall at highlandsranch.org.

Volunteer opportunities There are many ways to get involved in volunteer activities with the Metro District. Whether you’re interested in helping at a community event like the annual Ice Cream Social or Holiday Celebration at the Mansion, cleaning up our natural open space areas during Renew the Ranch or at an independent park/open space cleanup, or even planting shrubs in a stormwater channel to help with erosion control, the Metro District would love to have your help.

Learn more about our volunteer opportunities at highlandsranch.org/volunteer.

Volunteers help unload mulch during a volunteer project in August 2021. Tree wells were mulched in local parks, which is a smart practice, providing a healthy cover and to retain moisture.

Like many large new projects in the community, the Highlands Ranch Senior Center project has generated a great deal of interest and questions. General Manager Mike Renshaw, who is overseeing this project, sat down to answer questions related to the future senior center.

Q: How will the senior center be funded?

A: One-time capital funding for the construction of the senior center comes from cash on hand, generated from system development fees and interest earned on those fee collections.

System development fees are paid by the developer at the time of construction of new development.

The business plan for operations of the senior center assumes funding from user fees and property taxes. The long-term financial forecast for the Metro District does not anticipate any change to mill levy rates to fund operations of the senior center.

Q: How will activities and programming at the senior center be different from the existing recreation centers?

A: The programs at the senior center will be developed to specifically address the needs and interests of participants age 55 and older. Currently there are program-related insurance plans such as Silver Sneakers or Renew Active that cannot be provided by the HRCA at the community’s recreation centers.

The senior center staff plans to partner with these organizations so many Highlands Ranch residents can apply their insurance benefit to programs at the senior center.

The senior center will not duplicate the type of fitness equipment provided at the recreation centers, but will offer fitness, wellness and recreational activities and programs, socialization opportunities, educational and enrichment programming and information and referrals to services for adults age 55+.

Q: What traffic improvements related to the senior center will be done on Highlands Ranch Parkway and/or the nearby intersection?

A: All traffic components in this area will meet Douglas County traffic requirements.

The main entrance to the senior center is proposed to be located across from Ridgeglen Way, more than 1,400 feet east of the Broadway/Highlands Ranch Parkway intersection. A secondary right in/right out is proposed at the west end of the site, which is approximately 1,000 feet east of Broadway.

Good News

Highlands Ranch Senior Center facts & FAQs

Douglas County is proposing to make improvements to the Broadway/Highlands Ranch Parkway intersection. These improvements were planned prior to selection of this site for the senior center.

Their traffic engineering staff will be conducting a planning and design study for the Broadway/Highlands Ranch Parkway intersection. There will be an opportunity for the public to participate in the study. When that opportunity is available, it will be posted to the project page at highlandsranch.org/seniorcenter.

Q: What impact will the senior center have on the gulch/ stormwater channel in the area?

A: The master plans for drainage include planning for development.

The runoff from this site will be treated by the appropriate methods to comply with Douglas County stormwater requirements. The runoff from this site will have an insignificant impact on flood elevations, less than ½”, and on flood rates, less than ½ of 1%.

View additional FAQs and learn more about the senior center at highlandsranch.org/seniorcenter.

Upcoming events at the Highlands Ranch Mansion sought to clean the town up. The result is a rollicking story of greed, lust and deception that encompasses the sordid side of Denver’s history.

The evening includes self-guided tours of the Mansion and a cash bar with beer, wine and a specialty cocktail. Tickets are on sale now for $20 and include appetizers. Purchase tickets by calling 303-791-0177.

Mother’s Day Open Hours Sunday, May 8 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Enjoy local history never covered in textbooks Landmark Lectures – “The Seamy Side of Denver” Wednesday, May 4 from 5:30-9 p.m.

During the 19th century, Denver earned an unflattering reputation as the West’s “most sinful city.” Brothels, casinos, murder, and crooked politicians ruled the Mile High community, giving rise to a mafia and KKK presence, as well as good government advocates that pompously

Reservations or tickets are not required for this free community event.

As a reminder, glass, outside alcohol and dogs are all prohibited on the grounds of the Mansion.

About the Mansion The Mansion is open to the public for community and private events, free historic tours, and cultural programs. The property is located at 9950 E. Gateway Drive. To learn more, please visit highlandsranchmansion.com.

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Messenger

Landmark Lectures at the Mansion offer visitors a unique window into the past and an opportunity to learn from area experts. During the May 4 presentation, author and historian Phil Goodstein will lead a quirky exploration of “The Seamy Side of Denver.”

Pack a picnic lunch to eat on the front lawn, take a self-guided tour through the beautiful 27,000-square-foot building and enjoy a relaxed afternoon.

Spring ‘22

Celebrate Mother’s Day in a one-of-a-kind location

Highlands Ranch Outdoors

Project updates around the Ranch Playground replacement While the playground at Toepfer Park, 9320 Venneford Ranch Road, was originally scheduled to be replaced this year, project planning is temporarily on hold due to ongoing site discussions with the Douglas County School District and Douglas County. Instead during 2022, the Metro District plans to replace the 23-year-old playground equipment at Spring Gulch Park, 10404 Hollyhock Court. To help renew aging equipment, the Metro District schedules one playground replacement each year. Staff considers the condition of existing equipment and available budget when planning replacements. Spring Gulch Park visitors can provide user feedback about what features they would prefer for the new playground equipment during a neighborhood meeting this spring. Meeting details will be available at highlandsranch.org beginning in April.

Parkway landscape conversion The Metro District is looking forward to advancing the Parkway Landscape Conversion Program after completing three demonstration sites in 2020 and collecting public feedback in 2021.

The goals of the conversion program are to reduce overall water and maintenance, maintain and enhance the existing look of the

parkways, educate the community about the value of landscape conversions, and create a realistic phasing plan that prioritizes areas for conversion. Details about this year’s conversion locations will be posted to highlandsranch.org/parkwayconversion in April.

West Fork trail crossing The West Fork Disc Golf Course trail crossing between holes 7 and 8 is scheduled for improvements. The crossing was originally constructed during the mid-1980s, and while still functional, the culvert pipes have corroded over time. After large storm events it can remain impassable for days. The Metro District is partnering with the Mile High Flood District, who will design, permit and construct the new trail crossing.

Design is anticipated to begin late summer or early fall, followed by construction in early 2023.

Channel stabilization The Metro District, in partnership with Mile High Flood District, has started construction on the East Fork of Marcy Gulch, south of Wildcat Reserve Parkway and west of Mountain Vista High School. This project will restore and protect approximately 2,000 feet of channel and open space. Construction began in February 2022 and the project is scheduled to be completed by June 2022.

Signs of spring – sightings of wildlife are common During the spring, wildlife in our area can be visible throughout the day as they nest, forage and protect their new offspring.

According to Colorado Parks & Wildlife, each year they receive numerous calls about baby animals that have been “abandoned” by adult animals.

They advise that it is quite normal for adult animals to leave their young in safe places while they forage for food. They also warn that baby birds are often fledging, or learning to fly, near their nests when they are accidentally deemed abandoned by well-meaning passersby.

What are some of the species in our area likely to be doing this time of year?

Messenger

Spring ‘22

Coyotes: Coyotes pair up during the spring breeding season, den and typically give birth to pups in April. During this time, male coyotes will be spotted throughout the day on the hunt for food for their partner and pups. Small dogs and cats have the potential to be seen as a food source by coyotes, and larger dogs might be seen as a threat to a coyote’s territory. It is important to always supervise your pets outdoors and leash them on walks no matter what time of year it is.

Owls: The most common owl in Colorado is the Great Horned owl. They are among the first to nest in the spring. They don’t make their own nests, but usually find an empty cavity or a nest used by another raptor the previous season. They mate for life and will typically return to the same nesting spot year after year if it remains suitable.

If you are lucky enough to spot an owl nest, please keep your distance to not disturb it – and remember – owlets on the ground are often fledging.

Bees: After hibernating during the winter, bee colonies expand as the queen lays thousands of eggs. If a colony runs out of room, it will periodically have to subdivide, which is known as swarming.

During swarms, about half the colony leaves the hive along with the queen and attempts to establish a new colony. Most swarms occur on sunny afternoons in late spring. The swarms may seem dangerous but are typically harmless as bees are not aggressive insects. Keep your distance and swarms will eventually leave on their own.

The Colorado Beekeepers Association offers a free bee swarm hotline, 1-844-SPY-BEES, to help collect the bees.

Bobcats: Bobcats are active throughout the year and typically produce their litters in the spring. They primarily hunt rabbits, but will also eat mice, voles and birds. Sightings of bobcats locally have become more common, but they aren’t known for coming into residential yards and confronting pets. It is still important to always supervise your pets while outdoors and remove any wildlife attractants in your yard.

Want to know more? In an effort to avoid conflicts with wildlife, we encourage residents to visit our Open Space Information Center, highlandsranch.org/OSIC, to learn more about living with nature as your neighbor. Visitors to the Open Space Information Center can find out more about different species of wildlife in addition to tips about wildland fire risk management, invasive weeds, our parks and open space rules and regulations, and outdoor recreation experiences.

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Reduce your risk – lessons from the Marshall Fire Guest Column by Einar Jensen, South Metro Fire Rescue Risk Reduction Specialist

Preparation and power washing for this year’s parkway fence staining project is expected to begin in March, followed by staining in mid-April. It is expected to take about two months to complete, weather dependent.

Almost five miles of fence along Arrowwood Drive, Summit View Parkway, Fairview Parkway, and Grace Boulevard will be stained this year. Letters will be sent to adjacent homeowners informing them of the staining schedule. As a reminder, the Metro District only stains the street side of the fence.

Homeowners with adjacent property can also help improve the longevity of parkway fences.

• Landscape materials such as mulch, rocks, etc., are not allowed within one foot of parkway fence. These materials will damage the fence and shorten its lifespan.

• Property owners are not allowed to attach anything to parkway fence. This includes holiday lights, holiday décor, satellite dishes, birdhouses, etc.

More than 42 miles of parkway fence winds through Highlands Ranch and ongoing maintenance is part of the Metro District’s commitment to keep the community well-maintained and attractive. The fence program only applies to Metro District-owned fence along the parkways and does not have any bearing on individual homeowner’s fences. If you have any questions about the Metro District’s fence program, please visit highlandsranch.org/fence.

Could a wildfire like the Marshall Fire occur in our fire district? Yes. And because it could occur here, it’s important that we consider lessons from that devastating wildfire and act on them.

South Metro Fire Rescue’s Community Risk Reduction Bureau is a great source for information on wildfire mitigation. Most property owners could benefit from the following mitigation tips: • Remove dead leaves and needles from gutters regularly.

• Remove dead leaves and needles from the base of exterior walls and from under decking.

• Remove junipers from within 30 feet of any home, business, church or other structure.

Highlands Ranch Outdoors

Fence maintenance planned along our parkways

Mitigation is effective at protecting our families and property from low- and moderate-intensity wildfires. The Marshall Fire was pushed by hurricaneforce winds with gusts exceeding 100 mph. Mitigation is not effective against high- and extreme-intensity wildfires. That is Lesson 1.

Lesson 2: When extreme wildfires are burning near or through neighborhoods, the only option is evacuation.

Lesson 3: It’s critical that residents register for their county’s reverse emergency notification systems. We have to opt-in to add our cell phones to the contact lists for pre-evacuation and evacuation alerts from the sheriff’s offices. Those alerts include information on the incident, its location, its predicted growth, and where evacuees should go. However, if you’re in a neighborhood or other area threatened by an approaching wildfire, you can evacuate before receiving an alert.

Visit dcsheriff.net/codered to register.

To read the full article, please visit highlandsranch.org/wildfiremitigation.

New program encourages homeowners to remove Russian olive trees If you knew the tree in your backyard was an invasive species that threatens our waterways, would you look at it the same way?

In conjunction with the ongoing removal program on Metro District property, 2022 kicks off an incentive program for homeowners to remove any Russian olives from their own yards. Homeowners can apply for the incentive program and receive $150 towards the removal of Russian olive trees on their property. The incentive will be distributed per household, not per tree. Interested homeowners should visit highlandsranch.org/ forestry to apply. Our forestry staff will first verify a Russian olive tree is on the property, and will walk through the next steps of the program with each homeowner.

Apply for the incentive and learn more about recommended trees for our area at highlandsranch.org/forestry.

Identify Russian olive trees: • Leaves are silvery white to pale gray-green, arranged alternately and 2-3 inches in length.

• Branches have 1-2 inch thorns.

• Olive shaped fruits that are light green when young to yellow-red when mature.

• Mature trees have shedding, grayish-brown bark.

• Mature trees usually reach 10-30 feet in height and can form dense thickets.

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Messenger

“The Metro District is working to eradicate all Russian olive trees from our properties over the next few years. But it’s a collective effort – the support and participation of neighboring homeowners will benefit everyone in our community,” said Natural Resources Manager Nick Adamson.

Spring ‘22

Russian olive trees were not originally planted with bad intentions – however, we now know how harmful they can be to our local ecosystems. In fact, they have been illegal to sell in Colorado for almost 20 years due to their invasive nature. Russian olive trees tax water reserves, can spread easily and can out-compete native species for nutrients and space.

Youth Sports

Visit highlandsranch.org/signmeup to learn more details and register As the year moves forward, we will continuously evaluate each program and determine how to make it work safely under evolving health guidelines. If program cancellations are necessary, full refunds will be offered. For more information about program-specific health measures, please call 303-791-2710 or email recreationinfo@highlandsranch.org.

Scholarships are available for youth recreation programs thanks to support from the Highlands Ranch Park & Recreation Foundation.

R E CR E A TION GUID E

Y ou t h S por t s

T-ball, Baseball & Softball

Rugby

Youth T-ball, Baseball, & Girls Softball – Summer

Ages 5-17

Practices are Tuesdays and Thursdays beginning May 3. Games are on Saturdays.

Fee: $190 Flag $220 Tackle $220 Middle school girls tackle Please visit highlandsranch.org or ranchrugby.org for details.

Registration deadline: Monday, April 25

Ages 6-14

All games held at Marcy Park lower field.

Fee: Resident: $75 Nonresident: $86 Spring – April 9, 16, 23, 30 10-11:30 a.m.

Registration deadline: Friday, April 1 Summer – July 9, 16, 23, 30 Registration deadline: Friday, July 1

10-11:30 a.m.

Boys Lacrosse Camp Grades K-9

Required equipment: shoulder pads, helmet, gloves, arm pads, mouthguard & a stick Fee: Resident: $120 Nonresident: $138 Registration deadline: Friday, June 10 9 a.m.-noon

Halftime Help (Shea) Stadium

Youth Learn to Play Intro to Pickleball Ages 10-14

Spring ‘22

Messenger

This T-ball league has no Saturday games.

Fee: Resident: $86 Nonresident: $99 Registration deadline: Friday, May 6 or until leagues are full Choose either a Monday/Wednesday league or a Tuesday/Thursday league.

June 1-July 14

Baseball & Softball Clinics

The Metro District is proud to offer clinics in association with Diamond Club Training.

Skills Clinic – Ages 6-14

Fee: Resident: $60 Nonresident: $69 Sunday, April 24 9 a.m.-noon Redstone Park

Pitching Clinic – Ages 7-14

Fee: Resident: $50 Nonresident: $57 Sunday, April 24 1-3 p.m. Redstone Park Registration deadline: Tuesday, April 19

Summer Baseball Camp Ages 7-12

Fee: Resident: $135 Nonresident: $155 May 31 – June 2 9 a.m.-noon Northridge Park July 18 – 20 9 a.m.-noon Redstone Park Registration deadline: Monday before camp starts

Fall Competitive Youth Baseball Team Registration Only

11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Tanks Park

Learn to Play Disc Golf Ages 8-12

Fee: Resident: $15 Nonresident: $18 Wednesday, May 25 4-5:30 p.m. West Fork Disc Golf Course

Registration deadlines: Friday before class begins

Skyhawks/SuperTots Sports Camps Ages 2-12

For descriptions, activity numbers, and to register for a summer sports camps, visit highlandsranch.org.

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Sponsored by

Ages 4-6 (Age as of July 31, 2022)

Introductory Lacrosse Programs

Fee: $18 Thursday, June 9

Fee: Ranges from $96 - $190 depending on age and league division.

League runs from May 23 to August 6.

View all league details and full descriptions at highlandsranch.org/ baseballsoftball or call the recreation staff at 303-791-2710.

Registration deadline: Tuesday, April 19

Weekday T-ball League

Lacrosse

June 13-17

Ages 4-14 (Age as of July 31, 2022)

Ages 7-14

This is a competitive baseball league for above average to advanced players/teams only.

Team Fee:* Ages 7-8: $1,650 per team Ages 9-10: $1,850 per team Ages 11-14: $2,000 per team *Age as of May 1, 2023 For league details, or to register as a team, contact Luke Ruter at 720-240-5912.

Registration deadline: Tuesday, July 19 Draft Day for individual players will be held on Sunday, July 24 at Redstone Park.

Umpire Training – Youth Baseball & Softball – A great summer job

The Metro District is seeking umpires for the 2022 baseball and girls’ softball seasons.

Fee: $30 Classroom/On-field training (choose one): May 21, 3-7 p.m.

Redstone Park May 22, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Redstone Park Please contact Luke Ruter at 720-240-5912 or lruter@highlandsranch.org for more information.

Golf

Shop Day Coming May 13-16 at the Park Meadows location

Golf Lessons - Get Out and Play Classes will be held at The Links Golf Course, 5815 E. Gleneagles Village Parkway.

Fee: Resident: $175 Nonresident: $200 Space is limited to six per class.

Wednesdays, May 11 – June 1 6:30-7:45 p.m.

Wednesdays, June 15 – July 6 7-8:15 p.m.

Wednesdays, July 20 – August 10 6:30-7:45 p.m.

Save 20% on all your sporting goods needs and items throughout the store.

Flag Football Fall Youth Flag Football Leagues

Sponsored by

Fee: Resident: $142 Nonresident: $163 Registration deadline: Monday, July 25 Practices begin the week of Aug. 8.

Preseason Fall Flag Football Camp Ages 5-14

Fee: Resident: $30 Nonresident: $35 Saturday, Aug. 6 9 a.m.-noon Registration deadline: Thursday, Aug. 4

Spirit Team Ages 4-14

Fee: Resident: $130 Nonresident: $150 In partnership with Team Fee: $75 Uniform Fee: $85 (Team & uniform fees payable to Dance Athletics) Aug. 5-Oct. 22

Skateboarding

Programs will be held at Northridge Park, 8800 S. Broadway.

R E CR E A TION GUID E

Kindergarten-eighth grade

Bocce Ball

Youth & Adult Sports

A D U L T S por t s

for our programs

Learn to Play

Fee: $18 Wednesday, June 15 6-7 p.m.

Registration deadline: Friday, June 10

Wednesday Mixed Leagues

Fee: $40 per person (Six games plus tournament) Registration deadline: Friday before the league begins Summer league begins Wednesday, June 22.

Pickleball

Programs will be held at Tanks Park, 10371 S. Broadway.

Learn to Play

Fee: $18 Thursday, June 9 9-10:30 a.m.

Registration deadline: Friday, June 3

Doubleheader Leagues

Fee: $45 per person Registration opens May 2 at 10 a.m.

Beginner League (0-1.5) begins Tuesday, June 14 Intermediate League (2.0-3.0) begins Wednesday, June 15 Advanced League (3.5+) begins Thursday, June 16

SkateStart Level 1 Ages 5-12

Fee: Resident: $60 Nonresident: $69 June 11 9-10:30 a.m. Tanks Park July 16 9-10:30 a.m. Redstone Park

Adult Softball

SkateStart Skatecamp

Leagues are offered for both the summer and fall season. Please visit our league website at quickscores.com/hrmd for detailed information. To register, contact Beau Bressler at 720-240-5934 or bbressler@highlandsranch.org or visit highlandsranch.org.

Summer leagues start the week of May 15. Fall leagues start the week of Aug. 21.

Registration deadlines: Summer: Thursday, May 5 Fall: Thursday, Aug. 11

Ages 6-14

Track & Field CARA Youth Track & Field Fee: Resident: $120 Nonresident: $138 Practices are Mon./Wed. or Tues./Thurs.

Starts June 1 Registration deadline: Monday, May 23

Visit the Metro District’s league website at quickscores.com/hrmd or contact Beau Bressler at 720-240-5934 or bbressler@highlandsranch.org.

Kickball WASA Coed Adult Kickball Leagues

Games will be played Thursday nights beginning April 21 at Plum Valley Park.

Register for leagues at wasasports.com.

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Ages 5-16

Free Agent Sign-Up

Spring ‘22

Fee: Resident: $120 Nonresident: $138 June 13-15 9 a.m.-noon Redstone Park July 18-20 9 a.m.- noon Redstone Park Registration deadlines: Friday before class begins

Summer & Fall Adult Softball

Tennis Programs & Park Services

Three ways to reserve a park shelter

Highlands Ranch Metro District Annual Benefit Golf Tournament

• Online: Visit highlandsranch.org/reservations to submit a request.

• Email: Contact pmoisey@highlandsranch.org and provide your name, address, event date and time, requested location and expected attendance.

• Phone: Call our Reservations Coordinator Pam Moisey at 720-240-5932.

Picnic Packs

Bring a bag of fun to your party

R E CR E A TION GUID E

The Metro District’s picnic packs are a fun and convenient addition to enhance special occasions. We offer daily rentals of fun-filled packages. Email Pam Moisey at pmoisey@highlandsranch.org to review picnic pack options.

2022 fee schedule Neighborhood park Community park Civic Green stage The Patio at Central Park

Resident Nonresident $18/hr. $30/hr. $50/hr. $50/hr.

$27/hr. $45/hr. $75/hr. $75/hr.

$18/hr.

$24/hr.

$6/hr.

$9/90 mins.

Learn more and register at highlandsranch.org/tournament

Free Yoga in the Park at Civic Green Park Saturdays during June & July from 8-9 a.m.

No class June 11.

Presented by Wendy C Yoga Donations will be accepted to benefit the WillStrong Cancer Foundation

Civic Green Park Fountains The popular water features are a fun activity for people of all ages.

The overlook stream and fountain, which run 24 hours a day, will be operating by Wednesday, April 20. The interactive plaza fountain in front of the pavilion will start to flow by Wednesday, May 11. The plaza fountain operates daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. unless turned off for a special event.

Two-hour minimum

Sports Fields Pickleball Court

University of Denver Golf Club at Highlands Ranch Cost is $105 per player

You can check availability calendars at highlandsranch.org/ reservations. Make sure the shelter you would like to reserve will accommodate your group. An event with more than 100 people requires special permitting. Please review park rules prior to making your reservation.

Shelters

Monday, Sept. 26 12:30 p.m. shotgun start

(includes use of net/paddles)

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Spring ‘22

Lebsack Tennis Center is hosting all your favorite programs

9325 Foothills Canyon Blvd.

Highlands Ranch, CO 80129

303-791-2348

& Under Tennis (ages 4-10) a10Junior a Classes (ages 7-15) aJunior Development (ages 9-17) aAdult Drills & Clinics Spring Session 1: Spring Session 2: Summer Session 1: Summer Session 2:

April 4-30 May 2-28 June 6-July 16 July 18-Aug. 27

For program details, visit LebsackTennis.com.

Register through the Kourts smartphone app. @lebsacktennis 10

Registration is now open for Summer Junior Team Tennis.

Practices begin May 31.

Summer season runs June 6-July 25.

Fall Junior Team Tennis practices begin Aug. 22, and the season runs Aug. 27-Oct. 1.

Centennial Water & Sanitation District is joining water utilities and organizations across the state to encourage people to choose phosphorous-free fertilizer to care for their landscape. Fertilizers that contain phosphorous can harm the environment. When it rains or snows, the phosphorous runs off the lawn and pollutes nearby rivers, lakes and streams, and can impact drinking water. Phosphorous is like junk food for algae and weeds. It feeds them until they grow out of control, turning ponds green and possibly killing fish.

Don’t assume your lawn needs phosphorous. A soil test can help you understand what your lawn needs to be healthy and if it already has enough phosphorous in the soil to support a healthy landscape.

If you’re putting in a new lawn, phosphorous will help it get established. However, if you’re in maintenance mode and simply caring for your current yard, it’s more than likely the soil has a sufficient amount of phosphorous to thrive.

Choosing a phosphorous-free fertilizer helps protect water quality without changing the way your lawns look.

Saving water starts at home.

Limit showers to five minutes.

Every minute you can cut off your shower time can save two gallons of water.

Install a high-efficiency shower head.

This simple step can save you 2,900 gallons of water annually.

Help reduce the amount of phosphorous in the water. Check the fertilizer bag when you purchase it and make sure it is phosphorous-free.

Learn how to set up your sprinkler system to conserve water

Water Resources

Choose phosphorous-free fertilizer to keep lawns green and waters blue

Check toilets for leaks.

Place 10 drops of food coloring in the toilet tank. Do not flush.

If any color shows up in the bowl after 10 minutes, you have a leak.

Get a lowf low toilet.

Older toilets use five to seven gallons of water per flush. The new standard is 1.6 gallons per flush.

Take a shower instead of a bath.

Taking a shower uses about one-third of the amount of water compared to a bath.

centennialwater.org | info@centennialwater.org 11

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Resource Central will start contacting customers in May to schedule evaluations. Sign up now to get on the contact list for appointments in June by visiting ResourceCentral.org/Sprinklers or call 303-999-3824.

Spring ‘22

Get a head start on your summer watering plan by scheduling a free sprinkler inspection. Centennial Water & Sanitation District partners with Resource Central to provide customers with a Slow the Flow sprinkler consultation. A sprinkler technician will conduct efficiency tests on your sprinkler system to determine exactly how long you should run each zone to keep your lawn green and healthy, without over watering. The technicians will provide you with a customized watering-schedule to take the guesswork out of watering your lawn, and provide bi-weekly, weather-based watering recommendations so you always know you’re giving your lawn the water it needs to thrive.

S P R I N G 2022

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PRSRT STD U.S. Postage

Highlands Ranch Metro District

Paid

HIGHLANDS

RANCH

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TH

ANNIVERSARY

Celebrating our history, building our future

A Publication Providing Information About: Recreation Programs • Youth & Adult Sports • Parks & Open Space Projects • Local Government Updates

A Publication Providing Information for:

Recreation Programs • Youth & Adult Sports • Parks & Open Space Projects • Local Government Updates

Highlands Ranch, Colorado Permit No. 93 CRRT WSS

Highlands Ranch Metro District 62 Plaza Drive Highlands Ranch, CO 80129

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Metro District Residential Customer

A Publication Providing Information for: Recreation Programs • Youth & Adult Sports • Parks & Open Space Projects • Local Government Updates

Enjoy the benefits of working outside, gaining work experience, and making a noticeable difference in the community.

The Metro District is looking for qualified applicants to fill seasonal parks, open space and recreation positions. Learn more about these positions and the application process at highlandsranch.org/jobs. Scan the QR code to learn more.

Attend a board meeting Metro District board meetings are held at 6 p.m. the last Tuesday of each month (with rare exceptions due to holiday schedules) at the John D. Hendrick Office Building, 62 Plaza Drive. Board study sessions are held the Wednesday prior to board meetings at 6 p.m. at the same location.

Visit highlandsranch.org/agendas for a meeting schedule and COVID-19 related details. Meetings are currently being held both via Zoom and in person. The public is encouraged to attend.

Centennial Water and Sanitation District board meetings are held at 6:30 p.m. the last Monday of each month (with rare exceptions due to holiday schedules) at the John D. Hendrick Office Building, 62 Plaza Drive. Monthly board study sessions are held the Tuesday prior to the board meeting at 7:30 a.m. in the same location.

Visit centennialwater.org to view a meeting schedule. Meetings are currently being held via Zoom.

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Local Government Parks & Open Space Recreation Public Works Water & Sanitation Fire & Safety Get Involved Employment

30/100/100/30 61/0/100/3 0/35/100/0 100/100/20/20 100/30/0/0 0/100/100/10 0/60/100/0 100/90/0/0

Apply for jobs online

Report a concern through our website

Batting cages open April 2

Register for CodeRed

Have you seen an issue, concern or problem in our community, but you weren’t sure where or how to report it? From graffiti to wildlife issues, ADA accessibility concerns and even broken sprinkler heads or snow removal questions, visit highlandsranch.org/resources/report-a-concern and complete the online form to report nonemergency issues or concerns.

The Batter Up! Batting Cages at Redstone Park will be open seven days a week beginning April 2, weather permitting.

Season passes, punch cards, cage rentals and single rounds are available. For rates and hours, please call 720-240-5940 or visit highlandsranch.org.

CodeRed (Reverse 911) will alert you by phone, email and texts about emergencies in your area. It will also provide you instructions on what to do to protect life and property. The system will notify you about police activity, lost children, wildfires, and other nearby emergencies. Please encourage friends, family members, neighbors and co-workers to register.

Businesses should also sign up. Visit dcsheriff.net/codered to register.